by Sailorman Chuck

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The charter boat will have limited resources. You may be ok on fuel for the entire trip.

 

Potable water is limited and you should develop a sailing plan for water stops. Depending on the number of people, you will likely need to take on fresh water two or more times during your cruise.  If everyone uses a lot of water for showers, dish washing and clothes washing, you could spend most of your time entering marinas and filling the water tanks.

 

The following are a few suggestions on water conservation:

 

1. Personal bathing can be the most wasteful of all other uses of water. Take “Navy” showers. Quickly wet your entire body and hair. Then wet and soap a wash cloth. Turn off the water. Wash with the soapy washcloth and shampoo your hair. Rinse off thoroughly and quickly. Turn off the water and make sure that there is no water leaking from the showerhead.

2. Save your leisurely shower for marina visits. They may even limit the water usage at certain times of the year.

3. If the boat is equipped with a fresh water shower attachment on swim platform, use is sparingly.  Just rinse off the salt after the last swim of the day. Double check that the valve is turned off. We have pumped an entire 60-gallon tank dry by forgetting to completely close the valve. A slow leak will drain a tank in no time.

4. Try to not wash clothes. Take what you need for the trip. Some marinas have coin operated washing machines.

5. DO NOT DRINK THE WATER IN THE ONBOARD TANKS. It is probably ok, however, who really knows? Buy plenty of bottled water.

 

Other suggestions:

1. Follow the daily engine, fuel and water checks recommended by the charter company. The checks are easy and will save you time and trouble.

2. Have alternate locations identified in case you need to quickly get to a safe anchorage. Short duration squalls can develop quickly and it is better to be safe than scare the daylights out of your crew.

3. Plan your trip to dine on the boat and on shore. There are plenty of good restaurants. Some are truly unique and a lot of fun. It is also relaxing and fun to prepare you meals onboard. Mix it up.

Yes, you can charter a boat with a clothes washer and dryer! Ok, air conditioning is available on a few boats! Don’t count on having  this type of equipment repaired if it breaks down during your cruise.

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